Legal Definitions - survivors benefits

Survivors benefits are financial payments made by the Social Security Administration to eligible family members after a worker who contributed to Social Security passes away. These benefits are intended to replace a portion of the deceased worker's income, providing crucial financial support to the surviving spouse, children, and sometimes dependent parents. The specific amount of the benefit is generally determined by the deceased worker's average lifetime earnings. To receive these benefits, an application must be filed with the Social Security Administration.

Here are some examples illustrating how survivors benefits apply:

• Example 1: Supporting a Young Family

  Sarah, a single mother with two young children, ages 6 and 9, worked diligently for over a decade, consistently paying into Social Security. Tragically, Sarah passes away unexpectedly. Her children would likely be eligible for survivors benefits based on Sarah's earnings record. These payments would help their guardian cover the children's daily living expenses, illustrating how the benefits provide essential financial support to minor dependents after a parent's death.

• Example 2: Spousal Support for a Widow

  Michael, 72, had been married to Emily for 50 years. Michael, who had a long and high-earning career, passes away. Emily, 70, was already receiving her own Social Security retirement benefits, but they were modest. Emily could apply for survivors benefits as Michael's widow. She might be able to receive a higher benefit amount based on Michael's stronger earnings record, demonstrating how these benefits can provide a surviving spouse with a more substantial income stream than their own individual benefits.

• Example 3: Assistance for a Dependent Parent

  Maria, 50, was the primary financial provider for her elderly father, Ricardo, 80, who lived with her and relied entirely on her income for his support. Maria dies suddenly in an accident. Ricardo, as a dependent parent, could potentially qualify for survivors benefits based on Maria's Social Security contributions. This illustrates how the program can extend financial protection to parents who were substantially dependent on a deceased adult child for their livelihood.